HPV Test For Women: A Key Step in Women’s Health

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It can be passed through sexual activities, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex, as well as through skin-to-skin contact. It is so widespread that many men and women will likely get HPV at some point in their lives. Worried about your sexual health already? Don’t panic! An HPV test for women is a crucial tool in preventing HPV-related cancers. Dear women, if you’re sexually active, ensure you get an HPV vaccine shot. Also, don’t forget to get an HPV screening test done regularly!

Global Statistics On HPV

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer caused by HPV. Statistics reveal that each year, more than 340,000 women die of cervical cancer.

In most cases, the body takes care of the HPV infection. However, the ones with high-risk HPV infection may develop cancers in their genital area.

In 2019, around 620,000 new cases have been registered in women worldwide.

The highest rates of cervical HPV in women have been discovered in sub-Saharan Africa at 24%. This is followed by Latin America and the Caribbean at 16%, and both Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia have rates of 14%.

Cancers Linked To HPV Infection

Types of HPV-related Cancer

Who Does It Affect?

Cervical

Women

Vaginal

Women

Vulvar

Women

Penile

Men

Anal

Men and Women

Back of the throat

Men and Women

Symptoms Of HPV-Related Cancer

Cervical Cancer

It is one of the most frequently occurring cancers in women that starts in the cells of the cervix (the lower region of the uterus). According to the World Health Organisation, it is the fourth most common cancer experienced by women, globally.

Symptoms:

In its initial stage, HPV doesn’t show any noticeable signs. However, when it progresses, you may experience symptoms such as

Vaginal bleeding after intercourse

Pelvic pain

Bloody vaginal discharge.

The HPV test for women helps in the early detection and treatment of HPV infections. Thereby preventing the risk of developing cervical cancer. So, get tested today without any delay!

Anal Cancer:

This one is an uncommon type of HPV-related cancer that affects both men and women. It is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the anus.

Symptoms:

Pain and itching in the area around the anus

Bleeding from the rectum or anus

Blood in the stool

A mass (some growth) in the anal canal

Oropharyngeal Cancer:

The oropharynx is the middle part of the pharynx (throat), behind the mouth. Oropharyngeal cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the oropharynx.

Symptoms:

Sore throat that doesn’t heal

Difficulty in opening the mouth fully

Trouble swallowing

Blood seen while coughing

Lump in the back of throat, neck or mouth

Vaginal Cancer:

It refers to the disease when malignant (cancer) cells grow uncontrollably in the vagina. Around 70% of vaginal cancers are caused by HPV.

Symptoms:

Pain and abnormal vaginal bleeding

A lump in the vagina

Pain while urinating

Vulvar Cancer:

Vulvar cancer is one of the rare diseases in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the vulva (female external genitalia i.e. inner and outer lips of the vagina).

Symptoms:

A lump or growth like a wart

Pain, bleeding

Itching in the vulvar region

How Can You Avoid HPV Infection?

To avoid getting infected with HPV, you should do the following:

Vaccinations: They provide excellent protection against HPV infections as well as various malignancies. All preteens (children aged 9–12 years) should be vaccinated, while adults up to the age of 26 can be vaccinated (if not already). Those above 26 years, who haven’t been vaccinated yet, can discuss with their doctor and get vaccinated, if recommended.

Protected Sex: If you're a sexually active person, you should practise protective intercourse. Using condoms not only ensures contraception from unexpected pregnancies but also aids in the prevention of numerous STDs & STIs.

Avoid multiple sexual partners: If a person has long-term sexual relationships with only one partner, their risk of acquiring HPV infection is lower.

Tests For Diagnosing An HPV Infection

HPV test: The test checks for high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer and other cancers. With LifeCell's HPV Test - Female, you can easily test yourself at home. This test identifies 24 high-risk HPV strains, including 3 major and 21 additional strains, using RT-PCR technology for quick and reliable results.

PAP test: The sample taken from a woman’s cervix or vagina and checked for abnormal precancerous or cancer cells. This test requires a doctor's visit.

HPV/Pap co-test: A combination of both tests.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you must have realised that HPV-related cancers are common. They can affect our general life without us noticing it. Therefore, it’s imperative to understand the importance of regular screening. It is crucial for early detection and management of potential health issues including HPV-related cancers. Also, all adolescent girls (older than 9 years) should get the HPV vaccine, as early vaccination is highly efficient in keeping the infection at bay.

So, dear women, get vaccinated for HPV if you haven’t done it yet and don’t forget to take the HPV test for women - take a step toward a healthier future.

For more details, visit www.lifecell.in/ or call 1800-266-5533